Choosing the right paddle board can feel overwhelming — especially with so many sizes, shapes, and styles to choose from. But once you understand a few key factors, finding the perfect board becomes easy.

This guide combines the best insights from our three existing resources to help you choose the right paddle board for your needs, skill level, and goals.

Inflatable Paddle Boards are great for most paddlers, especially beginners. They are lightweight, easy to store, and ideal for people who live in apartments or travel frequently. Thanks to drop-stitch construction and high-pressure inflation, they offer impressive rigidity and feel stable underfoot. You can carry them in a backpack, inflate them in under 10 minutes, and pack them into your trunk — no roof rack needed.

Hard Paddle Boards (also called epoxy or composite boards) offer slightly better glide and speed. They’re best suited for performance paddling, surfing, or racing. These boards tend to be heavier and require more storage space. If you live near the water and want top-tier performance, hard boards might be worth the extra hassle.

Bottom Line: Most beginners and casual paddlers should go inflatable. They're easy to use, durable, and more convenient to store.

🛶 Read more: Inflatable vs. Hard Paddle Boards – Which One Is Right for You?

Where you paddle makes a huge difference in which board works best:

• Flatwater Lakes & Bays: Choose an all-around or touring inflatable SUP. These boards are stable and track well over long distances.

• Rivers & Whitewater: A durable, maneuverable inflatable SUP is ideal. Look for reinforced rails, high rocker profiles, and increased width for extra stability.

• Ocean or Surf: Go with a shorter, planing-hull epoxy board designed to handle waves and allow tight turns. These boards perform well in the surf but aren’t ideal for flatwater.

• Multi-use Scenarios: An all-around inflatable paddle board covers most use cases, from casual cruising and yoga to light touring.

🧭 Related: How to Find Your Next SUP Adventure Spot

For Beginners: Go with a wide (33"+), stable inflatable board. These are easier to balance on, more forgiving when you fall, and feel comfortable underfoot. Our Retro and Wander boards are perfect for first-timers. Beginners benefit from a softer landing, ample deck space, and versatile board design while building confidence.

🧘 Try this next: Learn to Stand Up Paddle Board in Under 5 Minutes

Intermediate to Advanced Paddlers: You might prefer a narrower board (28–32") for better speed and responsiveness. If you're looking to cover long distances, consider a touring board with a displacement hull. These boards track straighter and are built for endurance.

🎯 More info: Planing vs. Displacement Paddle Board Shapes

Choosing the right size depends on your weight, skill level, and gear load. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Under 150 lbs: Look for 175–200 liters of volume.

• 150–200 lbs: Aim for 200–250 liters.

• 200+ lbs: Go for 250–300+ liters.

Length Guide:

• 9–10 ft: Good for kids, surf, or playful paddling.

• 10–11 ft: Great all-around length for most adults.

• 11–12.5 ft: Ideal for touring and better tracking over distance.

Width Guide:

• 30–31": Quicker, but less stable.

• 32–34": Balanced — stable yet fast enough.

• 35"+: Best for yoga, dogs, or ultimate stability.

Thickness: Most inflatable paddle boards are 6" thick, which provides great buoyancy and rigidity. Thicker boards float better and are more forgiving for beginners.

🏕️ Bonus Read: Things to Avoid on a Paddle Board Expedition

Don’t overlook features that can enhance your time on the water. Look for boards with:

• Bungee tie-downs for storing dry bags, shoes, or a cooler

• Removable fins to adapt to different water conditions

• Kayak seat compatibility — a Glide exclusive in our Elite models

• Electric pump compatibility for fast setup

• Mounts for fishing rod holders, cup holders, or action cams

You might also consider boards that include:

• Paddles (ideally adjustable)

• Leashes for safety

• Repair kits and storage bags

🔧 Gear up: 21 Best Paddle Board Accessories for 2025

High-quality boards should last for years. Glide inflatable boards are built with AeroMatrix™ drop-stitch cores and ThermoFuse™ rails — meaning they’re exceptionally rigid and long-lasting.

Many lower-cost boards cut corners:

• Poorly glued seams

• Flimsy materials

• No warranty or support

With Glide, you get a 5-year warranty, responsive U.S.-based support, and pro-level construction. Our boards are even durable enough to handle rivers and whitewater.

🛡️ Learn more: How to Maintain and Care for Your Paddle Board

You can find a board for nearly any budget, but price usually reflects quality. Here’s what you get at each level:

• $300–$600: Entry-level boards — okay for casual paddlers, but often less durable

• $600–$900: Reliable, rigid inflatables that come with full kits (paddle, leash, pump, bag)

• $900+: Premium touring, fishing, or specialty boards with enhanced performance and features

Investing in a mid-tier or premium board often means better value long-term — with stronger materials, longer warranties, and more enjoyable performance.

Still not sure? Here are three Glide models that make choosing easy:

• Glide Wander – $499: Lightweight touring board with great stability and tracking. Ideal for beginners who want room to grow.

• Glide Lotus – $599: Yoga-friendly, ultra-stable platform for stretching, meditating, and relaxing on the water. Wide, grippy deck and gentle ride.

• Glide Retro Elite – $649: All-around SUP with kayak seat and blade included. Great for casual cruising, fitness, or even taking your dog out.

Each of these boards comes with a full kit — paddle, pump, leash, and storage bag — making it easy to get on the water right away.

Try the Paddle Board Finder Quiz and get matched to the perfect board based on your needs.